Atkins Library hosts traveling exhibit ‘From DNA to Beer’
The J. Murrey Atkins Library is hosting the traveling exhibition “From DNA to Beer: Harnessing Nature in Medicine and Industry.”
Produced by the National Library of Medicine, in cooperation with the National Museum of American History, the display explores some of the processes, problems and potential of technologies that use microbes.
“From DNA to Beer” illustrates the dynamic relationship between microbes, technology and science and medicine. The six-banner traveling exhibit presents case studies of major scientific and medical accomplishments in the fields of biotechnology while showcasing the union with industry.
“I brought ‘From DNA to Beer: Harnessing Nature in Medicine and Industry’ to UNC Charlotte, because I thought it would appeal to a wide variety of our patrons, both on campus and off,” said Abigail Moore, education librarian at Atkins Library. “Since craft beer is booming in Charlotte, I hoped it would be a nice way to highlight this growing industry in a scientific and academic way.”
Atkins librarians have developed programming to complement the display, including exhibit talks on immunology and vaccination, as well as a presentation and tasting of the fermented tea known as Kombucha. Still to come are a lecture on “Home Brewing 101” from 4 to 5 p.m., Wednesday, March 2, in Atkins Library, Room 124, and a spring break tasting and tour at Legion Brewing from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, March 9.
‟Our hosting of this exhibit and the accompanying events provides an example of how academic libraries are transforming from their traditional role as warehouses of research materials into centers of culture, reflection and engagement,” said Anne Cooper Moore, dean of Atkins Library. “We strive to engage the entire community to share, reflect, learn and grow in new ways, including enjoying art, exhibits and events.”
From DNA to Beer: Harnessing Nature in Medicine and Industry can be seen on the first floor of Atkins Library through Sunday, March 20.